You might be thinking, “Isn’t the point of a theme park to ride all of the roller coasters?” While roller coasters might be the main attraction at any theme park, I promise you there are a lot of things you can do when you visit Universal Orlando Resort!
If you’re not a big fan of roller coasters, or can’t ride them for any reason, I promise you can still have an amazing trip. Here are 5 awesome things you can do during your next vacation at Universal Orlando Resort that don’t include a roller coaster!
1. Watch A Show
From the Wizarding World to the Lost Continent, there are lots of awesome live shows you can watch at Universal Orlando Resort. Every show runs on a time so be sure to check the official Universal Orlando Resort app for show times, especially for indoor shows since space is limited.
Two of the most popular shows are: the Horror Makeup Show and the Bourne Stuntacular. These shows are located in the Hollywood area of Universal Studios Florida. Both are located indoors, so make sure to arrive a few minutes early to grab a seat once they open the doors!
The Horror Makeup Show is a comedy show that offers a fun sneak peek into the movie making process for popular horror movie classics like The Wolf Man. It’s also one of the longest reigning attractions at Universal Orlando!
Inspired by fictional action hero Jason Bourne, the Bourne Stuntacular is one of Universal Orlando’s newest live shows. It’s a high-tech show with a mixture of live stunts and cinema.
Some shows are outside. There are four shows Harry Potter fans can watch in the Wizarding World: The Tales of Beedle the Bard (Diagon Alley), Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees (Diagon Alley), Triwizard Spirit Rally (Hogsmeade), and the Frog Choir (Hogsmeade).
For dates and times, as well as any other show updates, check the official Universal Orlando Resort app or website for more details!
2. Cast Spells
Before you return to Hogwarts for classes, be sure to warm up and practice your magic! Throughout Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure, there are dozens of spots where you can cast a spell with an interactive wand. You can find these spots scattered in each section.
Spell spots are marked by gold medallions on the pavement, which can be found using the map that comes with the interactive wand you purchase. Wherever there is a gold medallion you can cast a spell. Each gold medallion indicates where you should stand to cast a certain spell spell, the wand movement required to cast the spell, and the word or phrase that should be said while waving your wand.
3. Character Meet-and-Greets
Are you a big movie buff eager to meet some of your favorite characters? At Universal Orlando Resort, you can meet Marvel comic characters, Beetlejuice, Sponge-Bob characters, Scooby and the gang, and even more characters. You can meet special characters like the Grinch and the Who’s in Seuss Landing the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort.
4. Drink (or Eat) Around the Universe
Whether you’re in City Walk, at one of the 8 fabulous on-site hotels, or immersed in the park, there are lots of tasty treats to try at Universal Orlando Resort.
A popular place to stop in Universal Studios Florida is Chez Alcatraz, a casual walkup bar that’s located on the wooden docks of the Fisherman's Wharf. Here you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail or beer (if you’re 21 or older of course!) or a non-alcoholic drink. Chez Alcatraz is a fan favorite because it’s themed after the classic JAWS film. Make sure to say hi to Bruce and snap a photo with the beloved shark!
Next time you’re in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley, you can try the many styles of Butterbeer: hot, cold, and frozen. At Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour, you can try all kinds of ice cream—including Butterbeer ice cream!
Butterbeer is arguably the most popular drink in the Wizarding World, but there are plenty of other drinks you can try in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. Consider trying Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice, Fishy Green Ale, or Pumpkin Juice. If you’re 21 years old, you could also try the Wizard’s Brew and Dragon Scale beers.
5. Shop, Eat, or Play in City Walk
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the park? Hope over to City Walk where you can play putt putt at Hollywood Drive-In Golf! Day or night, you and your family can enjoy 50s sci-fi and horror on 2 interactive 18-hole mini-golf courses.
After a round of mini-golf, you can enjoy a tasty meal or drink at a variety of restaurants. There are several quick service or full service dining options. Whether it’s a burger at the Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, seafood at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co, Mexican food at Antojitos, there are dozens of options to choose from for any family!
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert! Toothsome’s Chocolate Emporium has lots of tasty treats, including a variety of massive milkshakes. You can also get your fix with Voodoo Doughnuts. Who said donuts are just for breakfast?
Check the Universal Orlando Resort app for each hours of operation or menus.
With live shows, spells, and food and drinks, Universal Orlando Resort is full of fun opportunities for everyone. Roller coasters are fun, but not a requirement to have a magical family vacation at a theme park like Universal Orlando. Now I hope you’re thinking, “I can’t wait to explore Universal Orlando!”
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